Santa Barbara News-Press: December 09, 2022

WNBA star Britney Griner released by Russia via prisoner swap

By CASEY HARPER THE CENTER SQUARE

(The Center Square) – WNBA star Brittney Griner has been released from Russian prison and is returning to the U.S., the Biden administration announced Thursday.

“Moments ago I spoke to Brittney Griner,” President Joe Biden wrote on Twitter. “She is safe. She is on a plane. She is on her way home.”

Ms. Griner was in Russia playing offseason basketball but was detained by Russian law enforcement after cannabis oil was

found in her baggage. Possession of cannabis is illegal in Russia. She lost her appeal in November and was moved to a penal colony.

Her release was secured via a prisoner swap, the White House said.

“After months of being unjustly detained in Russia, held under intolerable circumstances, Brittney will soon be back in the arms of her loved ones, and she should have been there all along,” President Biden said during a speech from the White House Thursday morning. “This was a day we worked toward for a long time.”

President Biden asked for Ms. Griner to have “space, privacy, and time” to heal.

“Brittney is an incomparable athlete, a two-time Olympic gold medalist for team U.S.A.,” President Biden said. “She endured mistreatment and a show trial in Russia with characteristic grit and incredible dignity.”

President Biden also gave a nod to Paul Whelan, an American accused of spying in Russia who has been in a labor camp there after being detained in 2018. He has a 16-year sentence but maintains his innocence.

“We have not forgotten about Paul Whelan, who has been unjustly detained in Russia for years,” Biden said. “This was not a choice of which American to bring home. We brought home Trevor Reed when we had a chance earlier this year. Sadly, for totally illegitimate reasons, Russia is treating Paul’s case differently than Brittney’s, and while we have not yet succeeded in securing Paul’s release, we are not giving up. We will never give up. We remain in close touch with Paul’s family, and my thoughts and prayers are with them today.”

Targeted for demolition

Respect for Marriage Act sent to Biden’s desk

Pacific Pride Foundation, Carbajal praise House’s vote for bill protecting same-sex and interracial couples

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The House voted Thursday to send a bipartisan bill codifying marriage equality for samesex and interracial couples to President Joe Biden’s desk.

In a vote of 258 to 169, the House approved the Respect for Marriage Act, which codifies the right of marriage of equality guaranteed by Supreme Court decisions in Obergefell and Loving. It also prohibit states from denying the marriages of other states based on the sex, race, ethnicity or national origin of the spouses.

The legislation, which passed the Senate last week and is expected to be signed into law by President Biden in the coming days, also repeals the Defense of Marriage Act and provides additional legal protections for same-sex and interracial couples.

“Today’s passage of the Respect for Marriage Act in the House is an important step on the historic path to protection for LGBTQ+ families and all families,” Kristin Flickinger, executive director of Pacific Pride Foundation, told the News-Press in an email. The foundation serves the LGBTQ community in Santa Barbara County.

affirmed the right for millions of Americans to marry the person they love, regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation,” Rep. Carbajal, D-Santa Barbara, said in a statement.

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

A proposal to build a four-story, 66room hotel at 710 State St. would mean the demolition of two buildings that now house The Press Room pub and Restoration Hardware, the project’s case planner said Thursday.

Associate Planner Kelly Brodison confirmed to the News-Press that 710 State St,, which houses Restoration Hardware, would be demolished, as would the building at 15 E. Ortega St., where The Press Room pub is located.

A third building at 19 E. Ortega, which sits at the rear of 710 State St., would be torn down as well, she said.

“The building at 15 E. Ortega is proposed to be demolished as part of the project,” Ms. Brodison said, adding that the project’s floor plan shows that hotel rooms are proposed for 15 E. Ortega St.

When the News-Press visited The Press Room on Thursday, customers reacted to the hotel proposal with dismay and annoyance.

“This bipartisan achievement is the work of many LGBTQ+ organizations, advocates, and members of Congress, who have been dedicated to ensuring its passage at this challenging time,” Ms. Flickinger said.

“Once signed into law, this legislation will ensure the dignity, rights and protections of marriage for LGBTQ+ people and their families,” she said.

“Congress’ next step must be to pass nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people to ensure equality under the law, so that individuals and families can live and work and support their families and communities, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”

Passage of the Respect for Marriage Act received praise from one of its co-sponsors — U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal.

“Just less than a decade ago, we celebrated the landmark (Supreme Court) decision that

“Unfortunately, last year the radical Supreme Court explicitly opened the door to attacking that right, for both same-sex and interracial couples, as they’re gutting the right to reproductive health care,” Rep. Carbajal said. “My colleagues and I are not going to stand by as our courts threaten this important progress that we have made. We are acting to codify marriage equality and make it clear to our Supreme Court that this right is not theirs to erase. I am proud to cosponsor this important affirmation of the rights of millions, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law in the near future.”

The Respect for Marriage Act requires that under federal law, an individual will be considered married if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed. The bill also prohibits any person acting under state law from denying full faith and credit to an out-of -state marriage based on the sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin of the individuals in the marriage. It also provides the attorney general with the authority to pursue enforcement actions, and it creates a private right of action for any individual harmed by a violation of this provision.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

LORIE SHAULL / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Britney Griner had been confined in a Russian penal colony since November prior to her release on Thursday.

COURTESY PHOTO

U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS PHOTOS

The Press Room pub on Ortega Street would be torn down under a proposal for a four-story Santa Barbara hotel in the 700 block of State Street.

Proposal for Santa Barbara hotel calls for tearing down The Press Room pub, Restoration Hardware

The building housing Restoration Hardware would be demolished if a hotel is built as proposed in downtown Santa Barbara.

Please see HOTEL on A4

Court upholds Los Padres’ Tecuya Project

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Tecuya Ridge Shaded Fuelbreak Project — planned for the Los Padres National Forest’s Mt. Pinos Ranger District — is past a legal hurdle.

The project was cleared to proceed after U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Phillips’ recent ruling against a lawsuit brought by Los Padres ForestWatch, Earth Island Institute and the Center for Biological Diversity. The court affirmed that the proposed thinning and fuels reduction work was consistent with the Forest Service’s Roadless Area Conservation Rule and issued a decision in favor of the Forest Service and the DefendantIntervenors.

The Forest Service’s legal position was supported by the American Forest Resource Council, California Forestry Association and Associated California Loggers. The Kern County Fire Department also advocated for the project, going back to 2009 when the project was first identified within the Mt. Pinos Communities Wildfire Protection Plan.

Tied up in federal litigation for the last three years, the Tecuya Ridge Shaded Fuelbreak Project is intended to create safe and effective locations for wildland firefighters to safely perform fire suppression operations and

reduce the potential for the loss of life and property.

According to a news release, shaded fuel breaks help to slow the spread of a wildfire and provide a buffer between developed areas and wildlands. The project includes timber stand improvements such as thinning that reduces unhealthy stand densities and increases the forest’s resilience to insects, disease and drought.

“This is another victory for forest health and for the people who live adjacent to Los Padres National Forest,” Chris Stubbs, Los Padres Forest supervisor, said. “I’m concerned about losing our Southern California forests while we battle litigation in court. Selective thinning enables us to protect our forests from the effects of catastrophic wildfire.”

The project consists of 1,626 acres along Tecuya Mountain above the communities of Lebec, Frazier Park, Lake of the Woods, Pine Mountain Club and Pinon Pine Estates. This project was developed to be consistent with the Mt. Pinos Community Wildfire Protection Plan and was identified in the Forest’s Strategic Fuelbreak Assessment analysis as a priority for wildfire mitigation treatments.

This project is scheduled to start next year.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

TRAFFIC, CRIME AND FIRE BLOTTER

Work continues on Santa Claus Lane Bikeway

CARPINTERIA — A project to construct a one-half mileplus stretch of a new bike path continues between Highway 101 and the railroad tracks in the Carpinteria area.

The Santa Claus Lane Bikeway will connect Santa Claus Lane and Carpinteria Avenue, allowing for a continuous, direct route along the coast for bicyclists and pedestrians. It will eliminate a gap in the California Coastal Trail.

The $12.5 million project includes more than $7 million in funding from the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (SB 1), according to Caltrans.

The project, which began construction after Labor Day, will also include new crosswalks, signage, landscaping, curbs and gutters, and bike lanes at the intersection at Carpinteria Avenue and Estero Street. A new turnaround for vehicles will be built at the end of Santa Claus Lane as well.

A closure of the southbound on-ramp at Santa Claus Lane is tentatively in effect until the end of January to accommodate work for the bikeway and on-ramp improvements associated with the widening of Highway 101.

Unity Shoppe telethon tonight

SANTA BARBARA — The Unity Shoppe telethon will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. today on KEYT-TV, Channel 3. Executive Director Tom Reed said proceeds will go to buying food and covering staff at Unity Shoppe, which helps local residents in need.

The contractor is Granite Construction of Santa Barbara. The work is expected to be completed during the summer of 2023, according to Caltrans.

Aside from SB 1, construction is funded by state and local funding including Regional Surface Transportation Program funds and a Measure A transportation sales tax revenue, implemented by the Santa Barbara Association of Governments.

For more information see sbroads.com,

— Katherine Zehnder

Firefighters rescue woman

LOMPOC — Firefighters on Thursday used a rope system to rescue a woman, who was found in a sedan 50 feet over the side of State Route 1.

The rescue in Lompoc came as firefighters stopped the forward progress of a brush fire related to the sedan’s accident. SBC A and the Lompoc Fire Department responded. The woman was pulled from the vehicle fire by two military uniformed personnel and transported by ambulance to Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria for evaluation, said Scott Safechuck, PIO for Santa Barbara County Fire reported in a tweet.

— Katherine Zehnder

Tonight’s broadcast will be hosted by Montecito rocker Kenny Loggins, who will perform along with fellow singers Michael McDonald, Katy Perry and Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket. Ms. Perry will be featured in a video segment.

For more information, go to unityshoppe.org. —

‘Harry & Meghan’ debuts on Netflix

MONTECITO — One of Montecito’s most famous couples — Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex — talk about their lives and their exit from the British royal family in “Harry & Meghan,” a documentary series that premiered Thursday on Netflix with its first three episodes.

The interviews were completed by August, and according to the producers, the Royal Family declined to comment.

In the first three episodes, Prince Harry talks about spending his childhood in the public spotlight. And he and Meghan discuss the early days of their romance, including meeting on social media and their first date in July 2016 in Soho, London. Harry was late and blamed traffic.

The documentary series shows the couple at their home in Montecito, and Harry talks about the ways Meghan is similar to his mother, the late Princess Diana. And Meghan and Harry talk about the first time she met Queen Elizabeth II.

— Dave Mason

City of Santa Barbara awarded $54M for ‘active transportation’

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The city of Santa Barbara has been awarded $54 million through the California Active Transportation Program for projects on Cliff Drive, Milpas Street and within the Westside and lower west neighborhoods.

The program’s main purpose is to encourage “active modes of transportation, such as biking and walking,” according to the city.

Design and environmental review for these projects will commence in 2023, with construction anticipated to begin around 2026.

The Cliff Drive project includes a 3.1-mile-long separated path from Arroyo Burro County Park to Castillo Street, three new traffic signals, eight new pedestrian-activated flasher crosswalk systems and sidewalk widening connecting Cliff Drive to Monroe and McKinley elementary schools. The Westside and Lower West

Project includes new sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting and cycling connections to improve neighborhood livability and safety. The project also includes completing the sidewalk on Euclid Avenue for a pedestrian connection to the Westside Neighborhood Center as well as adding a continuous sidewalk on Calle Real between Treasure Drive and Las Positas Road, to provide a pedestrian connection to the Junipero Street overcrossing.

The Milpas Street Project includes crosswalk safety enhancements, traffic signal improvements and major sidewalk repairs. The project also involves improvements in lighting and accessibility and bus stops.

The project will be implemented at the same time as a city-funded pavement restoration project.

To learn more about the projects, visit www. santabarbaraca.gov/ntmp.

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS PHOTOS

Prince Harry, left, and Meghan Markle

Goleta’s newest city council member talks about her goals

By KATHERINE ZEHNDER NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Luz Reyes-Martin, the newest member of the Goleta City Council, says she wants to address concerns on everything from road maintenance to parks and public safety.

Ms. Reyes-Martin unseated longtime Councilmember Roger Aceves in the Nov. 8 election, which marked the first time that council members were elected on a district-by-district basis. Ms. Reyes-Martin, who will represent the newly created District 1, is scheduled to be sworn in Dec. 20.

“I believe strongly in public service and working with the community. My goals as a council member will be to represent the needs and concerns of District 1 and the city as a whole,” Ms. Reyes-Martin told the NewsPress. “I will work hard to deliver essential services, address concerns such as road maintenance and safety, care for our parks and open spaces, support public safety, and work with our local business community. I will seek input from diverse perspectives to make informed decisions on issues before the council.”

In the Nov. 8 election, Ms. Reyes-Martin unseated Roger Aceves, the council’s longest serving member.

The News-Press asked Ms. Reyes-Martin about her victory and how she plans to build on Mr. Aceves’ legacy.

“I have a lot of respect for folks who serve in public office. It requires sacrifice and a deep commitment to the community,” she said. “I am proud of the grassroots campaign we ran. I ran on a positive message, sharing my background and experience and my commitment to the community. I have so much gratitude for the confidence my district has in my leadership, and I will work hard to continue to earn and be worthy of their support.

“Goleta just celebrated its 20th Anniversary. I look forward to being part of charting the city’s future. I will work collaboratively with the mayor and council, with

regional partners, and with our partners at the state to address Goleta’s needs and the needs of our residents.”

The News-Press asked Ms. Reyes-Martin what is planned to address the lack of street lighting in Goleta.

“What I can say is that adequate lighting is essential to public safety and neighborhood pride,” she said. “I have heard a desire to improve the lighting around the Goleta (Valley) Community Center, which I support.”

Ms. Reyes-Martin spoke to traffic improvements and how creating bike lanes on Hollister Avenue will impact traffic congestion.

“Among the concerns I heard from residents throughout the campaign were traffic congestion and street safety,” she said. “I attended a community workshop and city council meetings on the Hollister interim striping project, where compelling information has been shared about safety improvements that could be achieved with this project.

“I support moving forward with the interim project. An interim project allows us to implement safety improvements while providing the flexibility to make adjustments before committing to a permanent change.”

The News-Press asked what the revenue from the newly passed sales tax will go toward.

“The sales tax will bring much needed revenue to the city to address essential services,” Ms. Reyes-Martin said. “One hundred percent of the funds will stay in Goleta. Last year, the council identified some funding priorities. I expect the council will further refine those priorities. The sales tax goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.

“Some of the priorities I heard most frequently from residents included addressing our backlog of street/road maintenance, maintaining our local creeks, supporting our public safety programs, and maintaining the 9-1-1 response. I look forward to engaging with the council on funding priorities and hearing from residents in my district.”

Ms. Reyes-Martin spoke about

what will be done to address homelessness.

“The Goleta City Council approved the Homesslesnness Strategic Plan in 2021. I look forward to engaging with the council on progress being made with this plan. In addition, I have attended meetings for the Goleta Regional Action Plan (RAP).

It is clear that addressing the homeless is a priority for the city.

I will be reaching out to regional partners and experts to hear the latest and support taking a proactive approach to addressing homelessness in our city.”

The News-Press asked Ms. Reyes-Martin what will be done to boost the growth of businesses.

“I look forward to meeting with representatives from the South Coast Chamber of Commerce and also with local small businesses and entrepreneurs,” she said.

“Goleta has a vibrant and diverse business community, and I will be working with stakeholders to support a strong business sector in our city.”

Ms. Reyes-Martin also spoke to the future growth of the city.

“I believe in carefully managed planning and including robust community engagement,” she said. “When we consider projects that lead to growth, it is my responsibility as a council member to ensure the city is planning and mitigating anticipated impacts to resources such as water, traffic, roads and public safety.”

The News-Press asked Ms. Reyes-Martin what will be done about the student housing issue and the city’s related lawsuit against UCSB.

“Discussions about the ongoing lawsuit with UCSB have been part of a closed session with the council. As a result, I am not privy to negotiations or discussions,” she said. “Once I am sworn in, I look forward to learning more and ensuring our city is holding UCSB accountable as a regional partner to adequately provide housing for its students, faculty and staff.”

Ms. Reyes-Martin discussed what can be done to bring more affordable and lowincome housing to Goleta. “The

PHOTO Luz Reyes-Martin

immediate task the city has before them is having a state-approved Housing Element. I have heard from many constituents about the need to provide housing that is affordable, protecting existing affordable housing, and also protections for renters. These are all issues I look forward to engaging with my colleagues on.

“I believe in careful planning that includes community input and where we ensure that we are planning for impacts to water, traffic and public safety. I believe we can provide housing that is affordable while also respecting the character of our community and safeguarding our natural environment.”

The News-Press asked Ms. Reyes-Martin about crime reduction and the job that first responders are doing.

“I support our first responders and public safety. The city of Goleta contracts with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. They have done a good job of keeping our city safe and providing important public safety information and response to our community,” she said. “I will continue engaging with them to learn more about the constraints they have and also bring public safety issues to their attention that I may hear from constituents.

“Similarly with the sheriff, the city receives its fire safety and response from the Santa

Please see REYES-MARTIN on A4

Carpinteria’s Measure T rejected by narrow margin

By NEIL HARTSTEIN NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

Carpinteria’s controversial Measure T ballot measure has been officially rejected by city voters, even though the final margin separating those opposing it and those supporting it was just 83 votes.

The Vote No side garnered 2,573 votes, or 50.82%, versus Vote Yes proponents, who received 2,490 votes, or 49.18%, according to certified election tallies posted by the county on Wednesday.

The ballot measure divided the small-town beach community as evidenced by the slim margin of victory achieved by the Vote No forces.

Those who wanted it to pass argued it was the only way to stop a proposed two-story boutique hotel from being built on a downtown parking lot, saying city officials would not listen to the residents’ objections to having private development of public property.

Those who objected to the ballot measure countered that land-use decisions should be made by elected officials based on review by experienced city staff and the city’s General Plan, as opposed to residents using the ballot initiative process to make decisions on the city’s development and growth.

Jason Rodriguez, the Vote No spokesman, could not be reached for comment Thursday.

Ann Sly, the Vote Yes spokeswoman, told the NewsPress that the voters had spoken and her side would accept it.

“That’s it. It’s been decided. It’s

over,” she said. “It’s absolutely not an issue anymore. I don’t think Carpinterians want to continue the discussion on the controversy. It was a thing. Everybody worked hard. The voters have spoken. Now the process will go on with the developer trying to get approval.” She said she would attend public meetings when discussion of the proposed Surfliner Inn is on the agenda. “I haven’t lost interest in the issue,” she said.

Other Carpinteria election results show Vice Mayor Al Clark won the District 5 race for a seat on the City Council, with 555 votes, or 54.47%, over Councilmember Gregg A. Carty, who got 344 votes, or 33.76%, and Patrick O’Connor, who received 105 votes, or 10.3%.

Monica Solorzano won a council seat representing District 1 with 520 votes, or 91.23%, while incumbent Councilmember Roy Lee will represent District 3, with 891 votes, or 89.73%.

Vice Mayor Clark, Councilmember Lee and Ms. Solorzano will be installed and seated on the City Council at the board’s meeting Monday. Ms. Solorzano is scheduled to make comments afterward.

Also Monday, the council will select one of its members to serve as the city’s mayor and another to serve as the new vice mayor, followed by comments by the outgoing mayor and incoming mayor.

email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

COURTESY

Carpinteria’s Measure T, which would have prevented the potential development of a hotel on the property above, was defeated by 83 votes.

Proposed hotel would cover six lots totalling 30,004 square foot

“I haven’t heard of (the proposed hotel) yet, but it would be a real shame to get rid of this place,” said one patron who wished to go unnamed.

“I’ve been coming here for years, especially for the World Cup ... It will be hard to replace (The Press Room) if it ends up going (away),” the customer told the News-Press.

“Great! Another hotel,” another patron added sarcastically. “Pretty soon this city will have more (hotels) than houses.”

James Rafferty, who owns The Press Room and signed a new 10year lease in May, could not be reached for comment Thursday. Neither could the project’s architect, Kevin Moore.

The person who answered the phone at Restoration Hardware on Thursday declined to comment. “I cannot speak on any of that,” she said, referring questions to corporate officials, whose spokeswoman also declined comment.

“Thank you for reaching out to RH,” Kristen Miller-Weil, senior communications director at Carfrae Consulting, told the NewsPress. “We are unable to provide further details for your story.”

The proposed 13,799-squarefoot hotel would include a restaurant/bar and conference rooms on six lots totalling 30,004 square feet. The project also includes 16 parking spaces on the ground floor.

Ms. Brodison noted that the properties affected by the project are located in the Commercial General Zone, “and hotels are an allowed use.”

“New nonresidential square

footage must comply with the city’s Nonresidential Growth Management Program (GMP),” Ms. Brodison said. “Since no new square footage has been added to any of the properties, they each qualify for 3,000 square feet of new nonresidential. By merging the lots, the owner can build the 3,000 square feet of new floor area for each lot. They are also permitted to replace all the nonresidential square footage that is to be demolished.

“The project will have a demolition credit of 15,455 square feet for the demolition of three existing buildings,and 3,000 square feet for each of the other legal lots. Therefore, a total of 33,455 square feet is available for this project once the lots are merged.”

The buildings at 714-720 State St. are proposed to remain as is, she said, while.the project does

not involve the parcels on the corner of State and Ortega (700, 706 and 708 State St.).

She declined to comment on the lease situation regarding The Press Room or Restoration Hardware, noting “the city cannot regulate leases between private parties.”

Ms. Brodison also could not say how long it would take developer Jim Knell to win city approval for the project.

“There is no way to predict the time frame as there are so many varying factors,” she said. “It could be years, or it could be months, or it could never happen.”

The Santa Barbara Historic Landmarks Commission reviewed the proposal Wednesday and aside from some recommended changes, generally lauded its design, especially the fact that the hotel would be located within an outdoor paseo setting.

Mr. Moore told commission members the project came before them previously but at the time was envisioned for housing.

Developers withdrew their plans and reworked them, reducing the overall size by 3,500 square feet and making changes so the hotel would sit further away from the street.

Mr. Rafferty of The Press Room celebrated in May after his landlord, Mr. Knell, doing business as SIMA Management, withdrew his application to build housing on the site, giving the pub a reprieve from possible demolition. Mr. Rafferty noted then that he had signed a new 10year lease.

News-Press staff writer Jared Daniels contributed to this story. email: nhartsteinnewspress@ gmail.com

look forward to engaging with residents throughout my term’

our public safety partners for the benefit of Goleta residents.”

Ms. Reyes-Martin spoke of how she would like to see Old Town revitalized.

Barbara County Fire Department. They have done a good job in responding to wildfires and other emergencies. I look forward to supporting their continued work in Goleta and engaging in dialogue on what constraints they may have. I believe I can work collaboratively with all of

“Old Town Goleta is a vibrant community, rooted in our city’s history. There is a healthy mix of long standing businesses and new small businesses. Any proposed improvements or changes to Old Town must include robust community engagement.

“The voices of residents, business owners, and community members must be included in the conversation. I would love to see more community events in Old Town Goleta.”

She said she looks forward to participating in the Goleta Holiday Parade, set for 6 p.m. Saturday on Hollister Avenue (weather permitting).

“I am part of the Goleta (Valley) Community Center Strategic Plan

Group. The Community Center is the heart of Old Town,” she said. “I think it has great potential to continue to be an anchor for community gathering in Old Town.

“It is important to me to be active and visible in my district and in the city. I look forward to engaging with residents throughout my term and not just during council meetings.”

email: kzehnder@newspress.com

Today Sat.

City Hi/Lo/W Hi/Lo/W Cuyama 57/38/pc 59/45/r Goleta 62/46/pc 59/50/r

62/48/pc 61/50/r

60/48/pc 58/52/r

Bakersfield 59/43/pc 62/49/r

Barstow 61/35/c 63/47/pc

Big

Bishop 53/26/c 49/35/sh

Catalina 55/49/pc 55/49/r Concord 56/46/c 57/45/r

Escondido 63/39/pc 64/49/pc

Eureka 51/46/r 51/40/r

Fresno 59/47/c 56/45/r

Los Angeles 63/46/pc 60/50/r

Mammoth Lakes 38/18/c 37/24/sn

Modesto 57/46/c 55/44/r

Monterey 58/47/c 58/45/r

Napa 56/45/c 57/40/r

Oakland 56/47/c 55/46/r

Ojai 61/42/pc 55/50/r

Oxnard 60/48/pc 58/51/r

Palm Springs 69/46/pc 68/51/pc

Pasadena 62/44/pc 57/51/r

Paso Robles 59/44/c 59/46/r

Sacramento 55/46/c 52/43/r

San Diego 62/45/pc 65/54/pc

San Francisco 55/48/c 58/47/r

San Jose 57/47/c 58/46/r

San Luis Obispo 63/48/pc 60/50/r

Santa Monica 61/46/pc 58/54/r

Tahoe Valley 36/29/c 37/27/sn

Atlanta 67/54/sh 64/52/pc

Boston 47/30/s 37/30/c

Chicago 40/35/sn 42/35/c

Dallas 70/63/c 69/51/r

Denver 48/21/s 51/28/c

Houston 78/66/sh 80/65/t

Miami 82/68/s 81/66/s

Minneapolis 34/29/sn 34/29/sf

New York City 48/31/s 43/38/pc

Philadelphia 49/32/s 46/38/pc

Phoenix 64/43/s 66/43/pc

Portland, Ore. 43/39/r 45/40/r

St. Louis 54/37/pc 47/35/sh

Salt Lake City 39/26/c 41/36/c

Seattle 42/39/r 44/38/sn

Washington, D.C. 52/36/s 44/41/pc

10:15 a.m. 5.4’ 6:08 p.m. -0.1’

Beijing 43/27/pc 38/17/s Berlin 35/29/c 30/26/s

Cairo 78/58/s 76/58/s

Cancun 83/72/s 83/74/pc London 39/27/s 38/28/pc

Mexico City 71/48/pc 70/51/s Montreal 31/17/s 28/19/s

New Delhi 77/54/pc 77/53/pc

Paris 36/30/pc 37/27/pc

Rio de Janeiro 83/72/s 84/75/s

Rome 65/57/r 63/50/r

Sydney 67/59/pc 71/59/pc Tokyo 53/45/c 57/46/s

‘I

This is the architectural rendering of a hotel proposed for the 700 block of State Street.

KENNETH SONG / NEWS-PRESS

Chair Anthony Grumbine of the Santa Barbara Historic Landmarks Commission asks architect Kevin Moore questions during a meeting Wednesday. The panel sounded pleased with plans for the hotel.

Life theArts

‘Movies & Million-Dollar Mansions’

CALENDAR

Local author chronicles

silent film era in Montecito

By MARILYN MCMAHON NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

‘Today, Montecito is home to media celebrities and even British royalty. Their mansions are hidden behind tall hedges, long driveways and locked gates. But a century ago, the welcome mat was out for actors and film crews making movies set in tropical islands, ancient Rome, France in the 1500s and more.

“More than 60 silent movies were created by dozens of film studios on the luxurious estates of Montecito during the 19teens and 1920s.”

So writes local author Betsy J. Green in the beginning of her self- published mini coffee table book, “Movies & Million-Dollar Mansions: Silent movies made in Montecito, CA” ($24.95).

The book is 245 pages long and contains more than 450 photos of actors, actresses and scenes from the movies, plus photos of the estates at the time that the movies were filmed.

There are about 65 movies in the book. They began with a religious theme in 1911. Then came melodramas and adventure, and the era ended in 1928 after a jazz-age movie based on a Broadway musical (“The Jazz Singer,” the first “talkie.”)

“I was excited to find more than 20 instances where I could match up a photo from a movie with a photo of the mansion or estate

where it was filmed. The book’s cover is a good example,” said Ms. Green.

“One photo is from the 1914 movie ‘The Envoy Extraordinary.’

The other photo is a postcard of

the first Bellosguardo estate. The present Bellosguardo replaced it after the 1925 earthquake. If you look closely, you can match up the windows and other elements of the mansion with the scenery in

Why did Hollywood studios come all the way to Montecito to film?

“In the decades before movie studios had big budgets, it was

cheaper to use an existing mansion than to build one on their studio property. In addition, owners of the estates were flattered that their homes resembled mansions in Europe or other exotic locales and were happy to host film crews,” said Ms. Green.

Some 20 studios from Hollywood came here for filming.

El Fureidîs estate, also known as the Gillespie estate, was by far the most popular. Eighteen silent movies were filmed there.

“Fortunately, this is one of the mansions that has survived. In fact, Jane Pauley filmed part of her show ‘By Design’ there in May 2022. Sadly, many of the older estates have been divided, remodeled or demolished.

Another movie location that is still here is the All-Saints-by-theSea Church,” said Ms. Green, who became interested in silent movies while writing seven books called “Way Back When” about Santa Barbara history and “MESApedia.”

She started writing while working as an editor for Reader’s Digest and World Book Encyclopedia.

“I read the Santa Barbara newspapers, day by day, looking for interesting stories. Of course, stories about the Flying A film studio caught my attention. But I also looked to see what movies were playing in the local cinemas and tried to watch those films online. That’s how I got hooked on silent movies. ‘Talkies’ did not appear until the end of the 1920s. Silent movies are a fun way to learn about history — how people dressed, what their homes were like, transportation, people’s attitudes, etc.

“I’m a very visual person, so I don’t really miss the dialogue. Of course, most silent movies had subtitles. I enjoy seeing how the acting styles changed over the years. In the earliest silent movies, actors used very broad gestures that they had used in live theaters so that audience members sitting in the last row could see. As time went on and the camera moved closer to the actors, the gestures and expressions became more natural.”

The book was one of two COVID-19 lockdown projects for Ms. Green, who spent two years

The calendar appears Mondays through Saturdays in the “Life & the Arts” section. Items are welcome. Please email them a full week before the event to Managing Editor Dave Mason at dmason@newspress.com.

TODAY 4:30 to 6 p.m. A reception for the “Wings” juried exhibit will take place at the Santa Barbara Tennis Club, 2375 Foothill Road. 7 p.m. The Grace Fisher Foundation will present “A Winter Music Showcase” at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. The fifth annual showcase will feature everyone from the Santa Barbara Folk Orchestra to Jackson Gillies, WIll Breman, State Street Ballet Professional Track Dancers, the Westmont Chamber Singers, UCSB Maurice Faulkner Quintet and more. Tickets cost $18 to $60. To purchase, go to granadasb.org. 8 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40-$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-9655400.

DEC. 10 4 and 8 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40-$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-9655400.

6 p.m. Goleta Holiday Parade will go down Hollister Avenue from Orange Avenue to Kinman Avenue.

DEC. 11

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Santa Barbara Sea Glass and Ocean Arts Festival will present a PopUp event at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s patio, 113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara. The event will feature handmade, ocean-themed sea glass jewelry created by dozens of artists.

11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The 36th annual Holiday Parade of Lights will feature a full day of activities at the Santa Barbara Harbor, topped with the parade of lights and its theme, “Deck the Hulls.” Activities including the lighting of the Stearns Wharf Christmas tree at 5 p.m. For more information, go to santabarbaraca.com/events/36thannual-holiday-parade-of-lightsat-the-harbor.

2 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40-$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-9655400.

DEC. 12

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: The Downtown Community Holiday Mixer will take place at the Broad Street Oyster Co., 418 State St. The $25 ticket price includes a drink and appetizers.

DEC. 14

5 to 7 p.m.: A free candlelight concert series takes place on the steps of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara. 7:30 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40-$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-9655400.

DEC. 15

7:30 p.m.

The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33.

COURTESY PHOTO

“American Idol” contestant Jackson Gillies is among the vocalists at tonight’s “Winter Music Showcase,” a benefi t for the Grace Fisher Foundation. The concert will take place at 7 p.m. at The Granada.

the movie photo.”

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The biggest star to appear in a silent movie fi lmed in Montecito was Mary Pickford in the 1918 fi lm “Stella Maris,” below, which was shot at the Piranhust estate in Montecito. Please

COURTESY PHOTOS

Betsy Green wrote “ Movies & Million-Dollar Mansions: Silent movies made in Montecito, CA.”

Rudolph Valentino was among the actors who appeared in silent movies fi lmed on the Channel Islands.

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians donates $150,000 to food bank

By MARILYN MCMAHON NEWS-PRESS STAFF WRITER

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians presented the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County with a $150,000 donation this week to help the nonprofit expand its services in Goleta.

The check presentation occurred Tuesday during a volunteer event at the group’s Santa Maria facility, where members of the Chumash Fire Department and Team Chumash volunteers bagged 650 meals for local residents in need.

Foodbank of Santa Barbara County will be putting the funds toward its Sharehouse campaign, which will address needed modifications, additional warehouse space, refrigeration needs and updates for its recently purchased Goleta facility.

According to the food bank, the work will ensure the nonprofit can meet the countywide need for healthy food, support those facing daily hunger and keep the county

prepared in case of disaster. The new facility will also feature a Nutrition Promotion Center, a place where the community can learn about nutrition and food literacy.

“The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is a vital resource for the community, and we are proud to contribute to its expansion efforts,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “We applaud this group for its daily dedication to ending hunger in our region.”

Once retrofitted, the new 57,000-square-foot Sharehouse facility in Goleta, located at 80 Coromar Drive, is projected to open in summer 2023. With the newly acquired extra space, the facility’s cooler capacity will drastically increase from 28,000 pounds to 352,000 pounds and will allow the nonprofit to accept up to 80,000 pounds of additional food and fresh produce every week.

The nonprofit’s current Goleta

warehouse can only hold 15% of the food needed in South County, forcing the Foodbank to turn away 32,000 pounds of rescued produce each week. Additionally, because of the lack of space, most of the food donated in South County has to be transported to the North County warehouse, causing an additional 37,000 miles of transport annually.

“We are so pleased to receive funds from the Chumash Foundation that will allow us to purchase and retrofit our new Sharehouse facility,” said Dan Thomas, capital campaign director for the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County.

“The Sharehouse will help us more efficiently provide food to hungry people in Santa Barbara County, and it will protect the whole community from facing the uncertainty of hunger in the event of a widespread disaster.”

The mission of the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is to end hunger and transform the health of Santa Barbara County through

good nutrition. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, Santa Barbara County ranks third out of California’s 58 counties in its poverty rate, with 23% of residents lacking the resources to meet basic needs, including food.

The Foodbank provides nourishment and education through a network of more than 300 partner agencies, nutrition education programs and food distribution sites operated by the Foodbank and its volunteers. For more information, visit foodbanksbc.org.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has donated more than $25 million to hundreds of groups, organizations and schools in the community and across the nation as part of the tribe’s longstanding tradition of giving. For more information, visit www. santaynezchumash.org.

email: mmcmahon@newspress. com

MANSIONS

Continued from Page B1

researching it and another one about silent movies filmed on the Channel Islands.

“There were more than 200 silent movies filmed on the Channel Islands. Some famous people who filmed there included Buster Keaton, Roscoe ‘Fatty’ Arbuckle, Gloria Swanson, Rudolph Valentino and Mabel Norman,” she said. “Most of the films were made on Santa Catalina Island. It’s close to Hollywood and has hotels and restaurants.

“But the second most popular island was Santa Cruz Island, which is just off the coast of Santa Barbara. Actors and crews filming there had to live in tents and provide their own food.”

Ms. Green said she was surprised that there were no slapstick movies filmed in Montecito.

“No pie-in-the-face, kicking people in the butt, no silly chases. I think that’s because the people who owned the mansions did not want low-brow comedy associated with their properties.

“In fact, I found an article that describes how Fatty Arbuckle visited a Montecito mansion and said something like, ‘Wow! This would be a cool place to make a movie.’ But neither he, nor any other slapstick comedians filmed here.

“A lot of the movies filmed in Montecito were high-brow films set

in exotic locations, mansions and castles. The biggest star to appear in a Montecito movie was Mary Pickford in the 1918 film ‘Stella Maris.’ ”

During the time span of the book from 1911 to 1928, Ms. Green noticed certain changes in the movies.

“They became longer and had more elaborate plots, and the acting styles became more natural. The earlier movies always showed an actor from head to foot. Later on, closeups of the face or hands were added.”

The author said she found one Montecito movie by accident.

“I like to watch silent movies online, and one day, I was watching ‘Stella Maris.’ Suddenly, I recognized one of the locations in the movie. It was a garden at the Piranhurst estate. It had a very distinctive garden theater that had been used in other movies. I was super excited! So, I was happy to be able to add that movie to the end of the book.”

email: mmcmahon@newspress.com

FYI

“ Movies & Million-Dollar Mansions: Silent movies made in Montecito, CA” by Betsy J. Green is available for $24.95 at Chaucer’s Books, 3321 State St. in Loreto Plaza; Mesa Bookstore, 1838 Cliff Drive, and Amazon.com. For more information or to schedule a talk/ slide show by Ms. Green, visit www. betsyjgreen.com.

Continued from Page B1

W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40-$84. To purchase, go to etcsb. org or call 805-965-5400.

DEC. 16

8 p.m. Johnny Mathis will perform at the Chumash Casino Resort’s Samala Showroom, 3400 State Route 246, Santa Ynez. Tickets for the Santa Ynez concert are $69 to $109. To purchase, go to www.chumashcasino. com. The Chumash Casino Resort is a 21-and-older venue.

8 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-965-5400.

DEC. 17

Noon to 3 p.m. The free Big Brass Tuba Christmas Concert will take place in Storke Placita, which is between 722 and 724 State St. and is adjacent to De la Guerra Plaza in Santa Barbara. The Youth Makers Market will be in the same block.

2 and 7 p.m. State Street Ballet will perform “The Nutcracker” at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara High School student Olivia Pires will play Clara at the 2 p.m. matinee. Professional State Street Ballet dancer Emma Matthews will portray Clara at the 7 p.m. show.

Tickets vary from $38 to $121, with a discounted price of $26 for children 12 and younger in select price zones.

To purchase, go to granadasb.org. A student discount is also available for purchase in person at The Granada’s box office.

3 p.m. The Quire of Voyces, an a cappella choir based at Santa Barbara City College, will perform its “Mysteries of Christmas” concert at St. Anthony’s Chapel at the Garden Street

Academy, 2300 Garden St., Santa Barbara. Tickets are sold weekdays at the Garvin Theatre box office at the SBCC campus or at the door 30 before the concert.

8 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-965-5400.

DEC. 18 9 a.m. to noon: Mitzvah Day features community projects at Congregation B’nai B’rith, 1000 San Antonio Creek Road, Santa Barbara. Ten goodwill projects will take place at the congregation and throughout the community. The program begins at 9 a.m. with breakfast, followed by a welcoming address at 9:30. For more information, visit cbbsb.org/mitzvah.

2 p.m. State Street Ballet will perform “The Nutcracker” at The Granada, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara. Dos Pueblos High School student Sophia Kanard will play Clara. Tickets vary from $38 to $121, with a discounted price of $26 for children 12 and younger in select price zones. To purchase, go to granadasb.org. A student discount is also available for purchase in person at The Granada’s box office.

2 p.m. The Ensemble Theatre Company will perform “A Christmas Carol” at the New Vic, 33. W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Tickets cost $40$84. To purchase, go to etcsb.org or call 805-965-5400.

3 p.m. The Quire of Voyces, an a cappella choir based at Santa Barbara City College, will perform its “Mysteries of Christmas” concert at St. Anthony’s Chapel at the Garden Street Academy, 2300 Garden St., Santa Barbara. Tickets are sold weekdays at the Garvin Theatre box office at the SBCC campus or at the door 30 before the concert.

Lang Lang Feb 27

COURTESY PHOTO

“Leave It to Me,” a 1920 comedy that has been shown on Turner Classic Movies, is among the movies that were shot in Montecito. It’s about a rich guy, Dickey Derrickson (William Russell), who is criticized by his fiancee Madge Earle (Eileen Percy) because he refuses to work. Dickey tries to convince her he isn’t lazy, and the comedy builds from there as Dickey does some scheming.

COURTESY PHOTOS

At left, team Chumash volunteers bag 650 meals for local residents in need during an event that featured the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ $150,000 donation to the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. At right, members of the Chumash Fire Department help with bagging meals for the food bank event.

— Dave Mason

Thought for Today

HOROSCOPE

Horoscope.com Friday, December 9, 2022

ARIES — You’re feeling especially loving, attractive, and romantic, so romance is likely to be on your mind. Romantic novels and movies could seem especially appealing. If you’re currently involved, you will probably receive a lot of attention from your mate. If not, expect to receive admiring glances from those around you, including strangers!

TAURUS — An increased level of ESP and imagination could have you feeling more creative and artistic. You might want to channel this energy into writing, painting, or adding touches to your living room. You’re likely to be especially attuned to the thoughts and feelings of others, particularly family.

GEMINI — An attractive neighbor with whom you seem to share a bond could become a friend. A group you’re affiliated with could be expressing highly idealized goals and purposes. These goals are likely to be admirable, Gemini, but they may not be all that realistic. Bear that in mind before committing to any course of action.

CANCER — Dreams of a new career could fill your mind today, perhaps because of too much stress in your current one. You might even think of becoming a movie star! Go for your dream if you feel it’s what you want, Cancer. Remember that any moneymaking enterprise, no matter how creative, is still a business.

LEO — Spiritual goals may be at the top of your priority list now, Leo. You may be looking for online metaphysical seminars or meditation workshops, perhaps taking place in a distant state or foreign country. You’re likely to find it difficult to make a decision about any options right now. Whatever you’re considering, make sure you know all the facts before making a choice of any kind.

VIRGO — Lovely dreams could spark your imagination and get your artistic abilities going. You could learn a lot about yourself and whatever has been limiting you. Write down whatever comes your way so you can work with it later, but don’t try to make sense of it today. Wait a while and then consider everything in a more practical light.

LIBRA — A new friend could arrive today, Libra. You’re probably going to like this person very much. He or she probably shares many of your interests. You could become close friends. The downside is that you aren’t likely to see anyone as they really are, only an idealized picture. When you meet this person, try to see the real person behind the mask and accept them as they are.

SCORPIO — If you’ve been thinking about a job change or even a new career, a chance interaction could provide the opportunity. However, Scorpio, remember, “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Get the facts as clearly as you can. Consider all the ins and outs before committing yourself or getting too excited about it.

SAGITTARIUS — A journey by air to a distant place might be on your mind, though you might not make it for a long time. Knowledge is important to you, and you can be insatiably curious. This is likely to be one of those days, Sagittarius. A friend or lover could bring some new information that sparks your curiosity, perhaps something related to astrology or the occult.

CAPRICORN — The desire to beautify your home could hit you full force today, Capricorn. Perhaps you’re expecting future visitors or house guests and want to make a good impression. You could prowl through online antique stores looking for knickknacks. You might set your sights on doing something a bit more ambitious than you originally planned.

AQUARIUS — A new neighbor could arrive who you feel especially drawn to, Aquarius. You might have high hopes for a friendship with this person. He or she may seem especially congenial and share a lot of your interests, and this could seem almost too perfect. However, you’re in just the mood to idealize new relationships, so don’t get too excited until you get to know this person better.

PISCES — You could be feeling especially sociable today. Maybe there’s a virtual party of some kind you want to be invited to. You could hear some good news, and there is probably some truth to it, but take everything you hear through the grapevine with a grain of salt. Not everything you hear is based on fact.

SUDOKU

CODEWORD PUZZLE

By FRANK STEWART Tribune Content Agency

Friday, December 9, 2022

Alfred Sheinwold, who originated this column 60 years ago, was an exceptional columnist, in part because each of his columns focused on just a single point of play.

Cover today’s East-West cards. You’re declarer at 6NT and start with three diamond tricks, three hearts and two clubs. All you must do is handle the spades effectively.

The actual declarer won the first diamond in his hand and led a spade to dummy’s ten. East took his singleton jack and led a heart, and South won and tried a second spade to the queen. That finesse worked, but when East discarded, West had to get a spade trick.

FOUR TRICKS

South’s play would have been fine if he needed five spade tricks, but to make 6NT he needed only four. South could cash the ace and later lead a spade toward dummy, but then he might have an awkward guess.

South should start with a spade to the queen. If East had the king, South would finesse with the ten later. The correct play gains when East has the singleton jack.

double, and your partner responds (“advances”) two hearts. What do you say?

ANSWER:

problem is

some

Codeword is a fun game with simple rules, and a great way to test your knowledge of the English language.

Every number in the codeword grid is ‘code’ for a letter of the alphabet. Thus, the number 2 may correspond to the letter L, for instance.

All puzzles come with a few letters to start. Your first move should be to enter these letters in the puzzle grid. If the letter S is in the box at the bottom of the page underneath the number 2, your first move should be to find all cells numbered 2 in the grid and enter the letter S. Cross the letter S off the list at the bottom of the grid.

Remember that at the end you should have a different letter of the alphabet in each of the numbered boxes 1- 26, and a word in English in each of the horizontal and vertical runs on the codeword grid.

“I would define, in brief, the poetry of words as the rhythmical creation of Beauty.” — Edgar Allan Poe